How conveyancing works when you buy a house
Conveyancing is the legal process of transferring property ownership from the seller to you. If you're buying, you need a solicitor or licensed conveyancer to handle this. If you're renting, you'll need to give your landlord proper notice instead.
What does a conveyancer do?
They handle the legal side of your purchase: conducting property searches, reviewing contracts, handling the exchange of funds, and registering you as the new owner with the Land Registry. You can use a solicitor or a licensed conveyancer — both are qualified to do the job.
How to choose one
Get quotes from at least 3 firms. Prices vary significantly — expect to pay between £800 and £2,000+ depending on the property value and complexity. Ask for a full breakdown of fees including disbursements (searches, Land Registry fees, etc.) so you can compare like-for-like.
How long does conveyancing take?
Typically 8–12 weeks from offer accepted to completion, but it can be faster or slower depending on the chain, search results, and how responsive everyone is. The single biggest cause of delays is slow communication — stay on top of your solicitor and respond to queries quickly.
If you're renting
Check your tenancy agreement for the notice period — usually 1 month for a rolling contract or you may need to wait until a break clause. Give notice in writing and keep a copy. Take photos of the property's condition when you leave.
Useful links
Common questions
- Can I do conveyancing myself?
- Technically yes, but it's not recommended. The legal complexity and risk of getting it wrong far outweighs the cost of a professional.
- What are disbursements?
- These are third-party costs your solicitor pays on your behalf — local authority searches, Land Registry fees, bank transfer fees, etc. They're on top of the solicitor's own fees.
- What's the difference between exchange and completion?
- Exchange is when contracts become legally binding — neither side can pull out without penalty. Completion is when you get the keys and the property is yours. There's usually 1–2 weeks between them.
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